Two further projects in Barker worth more than $1.46 million will receive funding under the Murray–Darling Basin Economic Development Program’s third round, providing jobs and economic stimulus to the region.
Member for Barker, Tony Pasin, said the successful projects could get up and running quickly.
“Congratulations to successful recipients the District Council of Loxton Waikerie who will receive $715,000 in funding to develop the Loxton Waikerie Tourism Tech and Events Project and the Renmark Paringa Council who will receive $750,000 for their Revive Renmark project”.
“These grants will provide work for local small businesses and employment opportunities in our community in the midst of this pandemic while at the same time providing enduring benefits. It’s a win-win,” Mr Pasin said.
“The projects will provide an important stimulus now and, in the long-term, will provide our communities with better infrastructure, more diverse economies and more jobs.”
The District Council of Loxton Waikerie will receive $715,000 in funding to develop the Loxton Waikerie Tourism Tech and Events Project.
District Council of Loxton Waikerie CEO David Beaton said this announcement is very welcome as it fits with Council’s physical tourism infrastructure investment which has been extensively supported by the Morrison Government.
“Tony Pasin as our local member has understood the Council and community aspirations and the need to have a diverse local economy based on our unique local and regional attractions,” Mr Beaton said.
“This project will support the development of local significant events to drive economic activity now and into the future. The extensive data gained will help residents make informed decisions on investment opportunities in the region,“ Mr Beaton said.
“The Murray Darling Economic Development Grants have directly supported the amenity for the tourism economy locally and that has been paying dividends with increased turnover and activity. This project will provide another level of economic foundation with increased digital resources, events infrastructure and improved local capability and is very exciting” Mr Beaton said.
The Renmark Paringa Council will receive $750,000 in funding for their Revive Renmark project.
Renmark Paringa Council Mayor Neil Martinson said the funding of the Revive Renmark project will supercharge the roll out of Council’s Urban Design Framework (UDF) and build on the delivery of the award-winning Taylor Riverfront Precinct.
“Funding will be allocated to design and construct some elements of Stage 2 of the UDF (Murray Avenue), roll out of wayfinding signage and fund various town making projects in conjunction with Renmark Paringa Network.” Mayor Martinson said.
“Our Local Federal Member Tony Pasin understands the vision that Council has for the Renmark township and has been heavily invested in helping us secure the funding to bring it to fruition.” Mayor Martinson said.
Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt said the focus was on selecting projects that could provide jobs.
“We need to support those small businesses affected by COVID now and into the future,” Minister Pitt said.
“The Murray–Darling Basin Economic Development Program is all about listening to the good ideas communities generate – and supporting those that can make the most difference to the future prosperity of our rural and regional communities.”
The latest $5.4 million in grants under this round builds on the $28 million previously announced and the nearly $39 million approved through round 1 and 2 of the program.
For more information on the Murray–Darling Basin Economic Development Grant Program visit the website.
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